rational fear

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "rational fear" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a fear that is based on logical reasoning or a realistic assessment of a situation. Example: "Her rational fear of flying was rooted in the statistics of air travel safety."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

Hobbes' solution is to ground promissory obligations not directly in the rationality of keeping promises, but rather in the rational fear of the sovereign, whose job it is to enforce contracts by punishing renegers.

SEP

It's more than a rational fear, it's a phobia.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But my rational fear is that another round of war is coming".

The Guardian

Adam Edwards: I think it's a completely rational fear for a human being on a biological level.

University of California, Berkeley

First up, Guardian Australia pals A Rational Fear follow Tony Abbott's sexist remark to its logical conclusion.

The Guardian

They do not account for concerns that the actions of the Federal Reserve have skewed stock prices, another rational fear.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

Privacy is an issue of fears -- often, but not always, rational fears.

The New York Times

(Criterion Collection, June 22, $29.95) CHARLES TAYLOR Matinee (1993) Rational fears are hardly fun.

The New York Times

Studies have shown they have quite rational fears that (a) they will wake up during the operation (after all, it's only sleep) or (b) they'll never wake up if they're given something that strong.

The New York Times - Science

I pick up some elegant, dusky blue kitten heels and some cute French-style white trainers, putting aside rational fears over the white suede strips and convincing myself they'll do for work and play on non-sweltering summer days.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

As Heidi Heitkamp, a Democratic former attorney general whom Mr. Hoeven defeated in 2000, asked, "Why should every person in North Dakota have to watch their mail with an incredible diligence to protect their privacy rights?" In the debate here, each side is making its case on what even its opponents concede are rational fears.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "rational fear" to describe a fear based on a clear and logical understanding of potential threats or risks, rather than emotional reactions or unfounded anxieties.

Common error

Avoid using "rational fear" to describe phobias or anxieties that are disproportionate to the actual risk. A "rational fear" is grounded in reality, while a phobia is an excessive and often unfounded fear.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "rational fear" functions as a noun phrase where 'rational' modifies the noun 'fear'. It describes a specific type of fear that is based on reason or logic, as opposed to being irrational or unfounded. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is used to describe justified anxieties based on realistic assessments.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "rational fear" is a commonly used phrase to describe a fear that is based on reason and logical understanding of potential risks. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It’s crucial to differentiate "rational fear" from irrational phobias, as the former is grounded in reality while the latter is disproportionate. Alternatives like "justifiable fear" or "reasonable fear" can be used depending on the context. Ludwig's examples illustrate that the phrase is frequently employed in news, academic, and general discussions, maintaining a neutral tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Justifiable fear

Emphasizes the legitimacy or warrant for the fear based on circumstances.

Reasonable fear

Highlights the logic and understanding behind the feeling of fear.

Logical apprehension

Focuses on the cognitive aspect, where fear is a result of logical reasoning.

Well-founded fear

Indicates that the fear has a solid basis in reality or evidence.

Realistic concern

Shifts the focus slightly to the concern aspect, emphasizing its grounded nature.

Valid anxiety

Highlights the legitimacy of the anxiety felt in response to a situation.

Sensible apprehension

Suggests the fear is a practical and thoughtful response.

Grounded concern

Similar to 'realistic concern', but stresses the factual basis.

Justified worry

The worry is legitimate and based on reasonable assumptions.

Understandable fear

Indicates that the fear is easy to comprehend given the circumstances.

FAQs

How can I use "rational fear" in a sentence?

You can use "rational fear" to describe a fear that is based on reason and logic. For example, "His "rational fear" of heights kept him from climbing the ladder."

What is the difference between "rational fear" and a phobia?

A "rational fear" is based on a real and present danger, while a phobia is an irrational and excessive fear of something that poses little to no actual threat. If a friend tells you that the process of amputation and decapitation is a "rational fear", you know it's nonsense.

What can I say instead of "rational fear"?

You can use alternatives like "justifiable fear", "reasonable fear", or "logical apprehension" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say someone has a "rational fear" of flying?

It can be, if the fear is based on a logical understanding of the risks involved in air travel, such as potential mechanical failures or turbulence. However, if the fear is disproportionate and causes significant distress, it might be more accurate to describe it as a phobia or anxiety.